guácala, no
/ˈɡwakala ˈno/word by word
The English phrase "ew, no" can be translated into Spanish as guácala, no.
This expression is used to react to something that is physically revolting, such as bad smells or unpleasant tastes or to express strong social or moral distaste.
Which one should you use?
The interjection guácala can be used on its own as a standalone exclamation of disgust without the no.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
guácala, no is highly informal and is typically used among friends or in casual settings.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Latin America, guácala, no is a common way to express this sentiment, as guácala is a frequent interjection of disgust across many Latin American countries. In Mexico, you might say ¡No manches, qué asco! to express "ew, no". In Argentina, the phrase ¡Qué asco, ni en pedo! is used.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈɡwakala ˈno/
Did you know?
- While guácala sounds like a standard word, it is actually onomatopoeic, designed to mimic the sound of a person gagging or vomiting.
- The expression guácala is frequently paired with a specific physical gesture of wrinkling the nose or sticking out the tongue to signal revulsion.
- In Spain, the common reaction to something revolting is puaj, which differs significantly from the Latin American guácala.
Examples in context
- ¡Qué asco!How disgusting!
- ¡Qué repugnante!How repulsive!
- ¡Guácala, no quiero comer eso!Ew, no, I don't want to eat that!
- Guácala, no toques ese pan.Ew, no, don't touch that bread.
- ¡Guácala, no me gusta ese olor!Ew, no, I don't like that smell!
Example conversation
Lucía and Alejandro are looking at a strange dish at a market.
- LucíaAlejandro, prueba este plato de hormigas.Alejandro, taste this dish of ants.
- Alejandro¡Guácala, no! Qué asco me da.Ew, no! It grosses me out.
- LucíaNo seas así, dicen que es rico.Don't be like that, they say it's tasty.
- AlejandroNo me importa, yo no lo pruebo.I don't care, I'm not tasting it.
